Answer: I had the same thought until recently when I saw an elderly lady having trouble with her seatbelt. The flight attendant recognized the problem and helped her by explaining, again, the operation. The lady informed her that it was her first flight and the belt was different from her car. I realized while most passengers have heard the seatbelt demonstration countless times, occasionally someone is hearing it for the first time.

Q: Are seat belts a standard size, or do some airlines skimp on their length?

-- Steve Goldsmith, N.J.

A: The size of the seatbelt is determined by the seat manufacturer and then approved by the FAA. There may be some variation. I would not say that airlines skimp on their length. When seats are changed there can be a difference in belt length, but it is usually a small difference. If your selt belt doesn't fit, you can always request an extender from the flight attendant.

Q: Is there a law about wearing seat belts? Also, I have noticed a wide disparity between airline captains and their level of communication with passengers. I really appreciate having feedback from the cockpit, and am astounded by many passengers' casual attitude to the seat belt announcements.

-- Ron, Wisconsin

A: The FAA requires that passengers follow the signs and flight attendant instruction regarding seat belt usage. It is a "law," due to the FAA being the federal agency responsible for regulating aviation.

The most effective action a passenger can take to prevent injury in flight is to keep their seat belt fastened when they are in the seat. I do on every flight.

I agree with you that there is a vast difference in the communication provided by different pilots. Most of us realize that there are likely nervous fliers onboard and try to provide timely information.

John Cox is a retired airline captain with U.S. Airways and runs his own aviation safety consulting company, Safety Operating Systems